Research summaries for autism therapy: drug

definition of drug: Chemical or medication that leads to changes in the body, usually with the goal of improving health. In some cases drugs can be abused, as in illegal drugs. Drugs include medications prescribed by medical professionals, as well as over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
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Autism: An Emerging ‘Neuroimmune Disorder’ in Search of Therapy, Summarized Dec 4, 2009

Scientists are learning that the immune system may contribute to autism symptoms, and may be a good target for autism therapies.

The immune system is the system in the body that fights infections. Scientific evidence is building that tells us that the immune system might contribute to some autism symptoms. Studies show that people with autism have signs of inflammation (turned-up immune system), including inflammation in the brain. Some people with autism had antibodies (immune-active proteins) against brain proteins. If the immune system is important, new drug therapies to help balance the immune system might be helpful.

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Investigating the Use of Packing Therapy in Adolescents with Catatonia: A Retrospective Study, Summarized Nov 30, 2009

Packing therapy may be helpful for people with autism who also have catatonia.

Catatonia is a condition that may include rigid muscles, and little or no response to other people.... This study tested 6 patients (13-17 years old) with catatonia who did not improve when treated with drug therapy. One patient also had autism, and another Asperger's syndrome.... Read more...

Prescription Medicine Primer: Pharmacology of Autism Spectrum Disorders, Summarized Nov 25, 2009

Children with autism may benefit from behavioral therapies and medications.

The common approach to therapy for children with autism is a combination of behavioral therapy and medication (drug therapy). One study reported that 70% of children with autism 8 years old and older receive some form of medication. Common types of medication include antidepressants, stimulants, and antipsychotics.

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The Pharmacologic Treatment of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity in Autism, Summarized Oct 14, 2009

Some medications may improve attention spans and decrease hyperactivity in people with autism.

The author describes clinical trials of drug therapies in autism. Methylphenidate and atomoxetine are both used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These drugs may also help treat ADHD-like symptoms in people with autism. In autism, methylphenidate may work better for hyperactivity, and atomoxetine may work better for attention deficits. Other drug therapies may be helpful for ADHD-like symptoms in autism. Haloperidol, risperidone, clonidine, guanfacine, amntadine, and naltrexone have been researched. All of these drugs have shown improved behaviors in at least one study. However, other studies showed little or no effect of these drugs in autism.

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Showing 21-24 of 192 results

Synonyms for drug include: drug therapies, drug therapy, drugs
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